Big stink over rise in dog mess

DOG fouling is on the rise for the first time in 10 years as Britain’s canine population tops eight million.

Dogs Trust research reveals one in three owners is prepared to clean up after someone else’s pet

Branded the “most offensive” litter on our pavements, more people are reporting the problem than a decade ago.

The offence carries a £1,000 fine but campaigners say more needs to be done to educate owners to pick up after their dogs.

Dogs Trust and Keep Britain Tidy have joined forces to raise awareness of “the importance of responsible dog ownership”.

The Big Scoop campaign, which is launched today, is backed by TV’s Ben Fogle.

The documentary presenter, 39, said: “Thousands of pounds are spent each year on ensuring public spaces are kept clean and this could all be so much easier if dog owners remembered the simple message to ‘Bag it, Bin it’.

“Sadly, it’s becoming a recurring sight to see bags of dog mess hanging from tree branches, fences, gates, basically anywhere but in a bin.

“It’s a two-step process – and one that all dog owners need to be on board with.”